Proximal humerus deformity, in a four-limb amputee following meningococcal septicaemia

Abstract

We present a challenging case of proximal humerus varus deformity in a four-limb amputee, caused by growth arrest from meningococcal septicaemia. The deformity resulted in a loss of function for our patient with inhibition of activities of daily living, requiring corrective osteotomy to help improve the range of motion of the shoulder. We describe in detail the management of our patient, highlight the importance of the orthopaedic manifestations of meningococcal septicaemia, and demonstrate the importance of monitoring potential deformities from growth arrest in these patients.

Keywords: bone and joint infections; orthopaedic and trauma surgery; orthopaedics; paediatrics.